No bottled water?
@marilyn_ledger Hurricane Irma is almost on us and every time you stopped by Walmart or Publix or Target or anywhere else, the bottled water either has been sold out or only a few bottles are left.
And any time before the storm hits, anyone can take control of the situation by setting aside their own tap water — bottles, jars, pitchers, thermoses and zip-lock bags for drinking and storage tubs or plastic-lined bathtubs for flushing toilets and personal hygiene.
If the storm causes enough flooding that the water system is contaminated or, more likely, if power failures prevent water pumps from operating, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security says it is OK to use tap water that has been set aside if you “cannot access commercially bottled water in its sealed original container.” On its website Ready.gov/water, Homeland Security says: “If you must prepare your own containers of water, purchase food grade water storage containers.
If that is the case, only a small area will be impacted and repairs will be made ASAP,” the city″s statement said.
So it is wise to follow state emergency management officials’ advice: set aside at least 3 gallons of water per person and pet for at least three days.
And when the power goes out in Florida in September, the air-conditioning stops.
A gallon or so of water will flush most toilets.
However, if there is a serious water issue and lines have broken, Homeland Security News and Information says not to risk contaminating the groundwater by flushing.
Do this by pumping out or scooping out as much water out of the toilet bowl and tank as possible, then line the bowl with a small heavy-duty plastic bag.